The Consumer Council examined 37 makeup bases on the market, 17 of which contained endocrine disrupting ingredients and posed a risk of cancer, and reminded the public to understand the label information before purchasing.
Primer is the first step in applying makeup. The Consumer Council examined 37 makeup bases, with prices ranging from $108 to $995. According to the product label ingredients and information confirmed with suppliers, 20 of the sunscreen bases were found, and 17 contained endocrine disrupting ingredients, such as octocrylene.
Fifteen bases contained BHT, an antioxidant that improves the stability of cosmetics, and also have a potential risk of endocrine disruption.
Chen Jiannian, Vice Chairman of the Public Affairs and Education Group of the Consumer Council, said: “A study by the Danish Consumer Organization pointed out that substances that may disrupt endocrine function can affect hormone levels through different pathways, which may affect sex hormones, and may weaken reproductive ability, leading to abnormalities in the genitals of newborns, early puberty, and even increased risk of breast cancer or testicular cancer. Pregnant women, breastfeeding people, children and adolescents should minimize exposure to these substances.”
In addition, 17 base creams have a high alcohol content. Long-term or repeated contact may cause dryness or irritation of the skin; and 24 base creams contain allergens such as fragrances, which may pose risks of allergy.
The Consumer Council calls on manufacturers to review their formulas in a timely manner and reminds the public to understand the label information before purchasing. However, some products do not have Chinese and English labels, which is more common in Japanese and Korean products and needs to be improved.
The Consumer Council recommends that when purchasing and using a base cream before makeup, you can first try applying it on the inside of your wrist to pay attention to whether it will cause adverse reactions such as itching or redness of the skin.